BIO203

Adaptations

Photo by JD Willson

In order to survive, all forms of life must be able to adapt
to their surroundings, the same goes for Northern Banded Water
Snakes. These snakes have evolved many different adaptations to
survive and prosper in their every day life.

One of the most important adaptations, that all chordate members
exhibit, is the presence of a coelom. The coelom is a cavity
that houses and protects the animals internal organs among other
things. Along with a coelom they have a well developed digestive
tract, respiratory system and circulatory system. When you look at
it in the bigger scheme of things, these snakes are not so different
from us!

Nerodia sipedon can grow to be over three feet long, and
they can exhibit many different color combinations, usually having a
grey or brown background with stripes or markings being brown or
reddish in color. However, it is shown that the bigger the snake
gets the darker the skin. Some of the largest snakes can exhibit
solid black or dark brown skin.
Photo by A.B. Sheldon

It is thought that this particular snake is
able to communicate with other members of the same species. Although
the communication is minimal, it is accomplished mainly through
touch and smell. The snakes also use their sense of sight, and their
amazing ability to detect vibrations in order to find and hunt down
their prey.

These snakes have also developed some
adaptations in order to escape potential predators. Nerodia
sipedon is able to remain submerged under water for up to 90
minutes when diving down to avoid predators!